Junior Arborist Wanted - Oxford
About the job
This is a post for a Junior Arborist, who will work as part of a small team to maintain and develop the collection of plants grown at the Arboretum.
The post holder will work closely with the Arboretum Curator and Arboricultural Supervisor to maintain, develop, and improve the collection, achieving high arboricultural standards. The post holder’s enthusiasm for contributing to the maintenance and development of the Arboretum, as well as the work of the wider team is key. In addition to the arboricultural duties, the post holder will contribute to some of the Arboretum’s educational activities. These responsibilities include contributing to the delivery of events, and working alongside trainees and volunteers. As a Junior Arborist at the Harcourt Arboretum, you will have the opportunity to work with one of the finest tree collections in the UK, set in 130 acres of historic picturesque landscape. You will contribute to the on-going maintenance and development of the Harcourt Arboretum, involved with the creation of outstanding arboricultural displays and natural amenity. This includes a variety of roles related to the care and maintenance of trees, shrubs and meadow grassland. You will be part of a small but highly dedicated and efficient team that works on the Arboretum, and will also work closely with the wider department, including the Education Team. You will have the opportunity to develop your skills in engaging with a wide range of people, for instance by assisting with delivering tours to the public.
Preferred Skills
• A proven ability to work as part of a small team of staff.
• Appreciation and understanding of the importance of arboriculture.
• NPTC CS30.1 – Maintenance of a chainsaw.
• NPTC CS30.2 – Crosscut & stack using a chainsaw.
• NPTC CS31 - Fell & process small trees.
• NPTC CS38 - Tree climbing and aerial rescue.
• NPTC CS39 - Use of a chainsaw from a rope and harness.
• Able to demonstrate an aptitude and enthusiasm for plants and working in arboriculture (for example through work experience, qualifications, or references).
• Willingness to develop arboricultural knowledge and skills to a professional standard, including the use of machinery.
• Capable of undertaking all aspects of arboricultural work, including the physical challenges of the post.
About the Company
Harcourt Arboretum
Founded in 1621 as a physic garden, Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the UK. Today, the mission of Oxford Botanic Garden and Harcourt Arboretum (OBGA) is to inspire people with the scientific wonder of plants and we welcome over 200,000 visitors each year across both sites. The Garden and Arboretum together hold a collection of 5,000 different types of plant which form the basis for scientific research, conservation, and science-based education and programming.